Digital Nomad Life in Cairo, Egypt
Summary: Cairo, Egypt is a popular destination for digital nomads due to its low cost of living, vibrant culture, and easy access to the rest of the Middle East. The city is home to a diverse population of over 20 million people, making it one of the most populous cities in the world. The weather in Cairo is typically hot and dry, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-90s Fahrenheit throughout the year. The best neighborhood for digital nomads to live in Cairo is Zamalek, which is located on an island in the Nile River. Zamalek is known for its vibrant nightlife, excellent restaurants, and easy access to the rest of the city. The approximate cost of living for a digital nomad in Cairo is around $1,000 USD per month. This includes rent, food, transportation, and entertainment. The cost of renting a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Cairo is around $500 USD per month.
How do I meet people in Cairo?
When we asked people living in Cairo about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Cairo often join clubs and activities such as sports teams, language classes, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, joining meetup groups, or attending networking events. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests. This can be a great way to connect with other expats and locals in the area," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Cairo.
What is life like in Cairo?
When we asked people living in Cairo what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Living in Cairo as an expat or digital nomad can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The city is full of culture, history, and vibrant nightlife. Expats and digital nomads can find plenty of opportunities to explore the city and its many attractions. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. The city is also well-connected, with a reliable public transportation system and plenty of taxis. Expats and digital nomads can also find a wide range of international cuisine, as well as plenty of places to work remotely. Despite the challenges of living in a large city, Cairo is a great place to live and work for expats and digital nomads," explained one expat living in Cairo, Egypt.
Where should I live in Cairo?
We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"Finding a place to live in Cairo can be a daunting task. It is important to research the different neighborhoods and areas of the city to determine which one best suits your needs. You can start by looking online for rental listings, or by asking friends and family who live in the area for recommendations. Additionally, you can contact local real estate agents who specialize in the Cairo area to help you find the perfect place. Once you have narrowed down your search, it is important to visit the area in person to get a better feel for the neighborhood and to ensure that the property meets your expectations," explained one person living in Cairo, Egypt.
What do I need to know before moving to Cairo?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Cairo, they said:
"Before retiring in Cairo, expats should be aware of the cultural differences between their home country and Egypt. It is important to research the local laws and regulations, as well as the cost of living in Cairo. Expats should also be aware of the security situation in the city, and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. Additionally, expats should familiarize themselves with the local language, as English is not widely spoken in Cairo. Finally, expats should consider the availability of healthcare services in the city, and make sure they have access to quality medical care," remarked one member in Cairo.
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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Cairo?
"Expats in Cairo appreciate the city's vibrant culture, which is a mix of ancient and modern influences. They enjoy the city's rich history, which is evident in its many monuments, museums, and archaeological sites. They also appreciate the city's diverse cuisine, which is a mix of traditional Egyptian dishes and international flavors. Additionally, expats enjoy the city's friendly people, who are always willing to help and offer a warm welcome. Finally, expats appreciate the city's vibrant nightlife, which offers a variety of entertainment options," said one expat who made the move to Cairo.
What do people find most challenging about the culture in Cairo?
"Expats in Cairo often find the local culture to be quite different from what they are used to. Many find the language barrier to be a challenge, as Arabic is the primary language spoken in the city. Additionally, the city's traffic and pollution can be overwhelming for those who are not used to it. Expats may also find the conservative dress code and social norms to be difficult to adjust to. Finally, the bureaucracy and paperwork associated with living in Cairo can be a source of frustration for expats," explained one person living in Cairo, Egypt.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Cairo for a while?
"If you plan to stay in Cairo for a while, you will need to obtain a valid visa. Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a tourist visa, a business visa, or a student visa. Additionally, you may need to apply for a residence permit or a work permit if you plan to stay in the country for an extended period of time," explained one person living in Cairo, Egypt.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Cairo?
We asked people in Cairo if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting Cairo. It is important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. It is also important to avoid public displays of affection, as this is considered inappropriate in the local culture. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local laws and customs regarding photography, as taking pictures of certain sites or people may be considered offensive. Finally, it is important to be respectful of local religious beliefs and practices, and to avoid making any comments that could be seen as disrespectful," remarked one member in Cairo.
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What are healthcare services like in Cairo?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Cairo, they replied:
"Get recommendations for doctors from other expats. Meet them, check them out and see if you like them or not. Most doctors for expats will speak good English, but some doctors in Egypt are pretty arrogant and it may make for a more difficult situation when it comes to getting information out of him/her. Find one you like, get his/her phone number (mobile-cell number) and use it when needed as most doctors do not hire receptionists that speak English well enough to make appts for you," said a member in Cairo.
"Healthcare services in Cairo, are a mix of public and private providers, offering various levels of care to the city's residents. The public healthcare system is managed by the Ministry of Health and Population, which operates numerous hospitals, clinics, and primary healthcare centers throughout the city. These facilities often face challenges such as overcrowding, limited resources, and outdated equipment, which can impact the quality of care provided. In contrast, the private healthcare sector in Cairo is rapidly growing and offers a higher standard of care, with modern facilities, advanced technology, and well-trained medical professionals. Many private hospitals and clinics cater to both local and international patients, offering a wide range of services, from general medicine to specialized treatments and surgeries. In addition to hospitals and clinics, Cairo is home to numerous pharmacies, which are well-stocked with medications and are usually open 24 hours a day. The city also has several medical universities and research institutions, contributing to the development of healthcare professionals and advancements in medical research. Despite the challenges faced by the public healthcare system, Cairo's residents have access to a variety of healthcare services, with the private sector offering more advanced and specialized care options. However, the cost of private healthcare can be prohibitive for some, making it essential for the government to continue investing in and improving the public healthcare system," explained one person living in Cairo, Egypt.
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What are the pros and cons of living in Cairo?
"Expats and digital nomads living in Cairo, often like the rich history and culture of the city, with its ancient sites, museums, and vibrant local traditions. They appreciate the relatively low cost of living, which allows them to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. The local cuisine is another highlight, with a wide variety of delicious and affordable dishes to try. The warm and sunny weather is also a plus, especially for those coming from colder climates. On the other hand, expats and digital nomads may dislike the heavy traffic and pollution in Cairo, which can make getting around the city a challenge. The noise and chaos of the city can also be overwhelming for some, as can the occasional language barrier when trying to communicate with locals. Additionally, the internet speed and reliability may not be up to the standards that digital nomads are used to, which can make working remotely more difficult. Finally, some expats may struggle with the cultural differences and conservative values, particularly when it comes to gender roles and social norms," said one member in Cairo.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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